Contents Bridestowe’s Christmas Market page 3 News from the Castle page 4 Bridestowe PC report page 5 Queen Bees page 7 Adrian Brook page 8 Howard Barkell pages 9 - 10 Okehampton Library news page 12 Movie Watch pages 14-15 Riverside Stores page 16 Bridestowe Churches’ news page 18 The Folio Project page 20 Family Christmas Party page 21 Bearslake Inn page 22 Sourton Round Up pages 24 - 25 White Hart page 26 Lydford Gorge news page 27 Forthcoming events page 40 December 2019 Issue 211
Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and New Year The Okehampton Fairtrade One Bedroom Flat for Rent Group and Room 13 teenagers * rural, quiet location 1 invite you to share a cup of mile from Bridestowe Fairtrade Hot Chocolate * furnished * garden and parking v * LPG central heating * suit single person
£450/calendar month plus bills For further details call 01837 861645
on the Edwardian Evening The December meeting Thursday 5th December from of the BOOK CLUB will 6pmat Room 13, James Street be our Christmas social Fairtrade cakes too! on Thursday December 5th at 11 Crandford Close. Don’t forget we shall be meeting slightly earlier than usual at 7p.m., so that we can discuss November’s book “The Shadow of the Wind” before getting down to the serious business of eating and “Pop Up” Cafe drinking. I shall provide bread and cheese and you can do the rest - don’t eat before you in Brentor Village Hall come! Also please remember to scour your shelves or the charity shops for a book which Friday 13th December you’d like to put into the lucky dip sack, in suitably festive wrapping. Contact person: Ann Allan on 861551 Homemade cakes and lunches If the defibrillator, situated on the external wall of Riverside Stores, is served 10am - 2pm ever removed from its case please let Alison Young (861157) or Peter Daniels(861244) know. Often the Local produce stalls also defib is not used but taken as a attending precaution but even so a check should always be carried out. Telephone All welcome numbers appear on a laminated card within the Millie 07787 994 220 casing. Thank you
Last recommended posting dates Wednesday 18 Dec 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For Friday 20 Dec 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For and Royal Mail Tracked 48* Saturday 21 Dec Royal Mail Tracked 24* Monday 23 Dec Special Delivery Guaranteed BaSE Page 2 Okehampton’s Edwardian Evening on Thursday 5th December At 6pm the ‘Curfew Bell’ will toll and the Christmas lights will be officially switched on by Matt Woodley.There’s lots to delight you including Jack Frost (from Entertainingly Different), a traditional barrel organ, the town’s Excelsior Band, food and drink vendors, Anita Frost in The Toy Shop telling stories, reindeer in the Red Lion Yard, Father Christmas at the Museum and so much more. The High Street is closed from 5.30pm - 9pm. Parking is free in Simmons Park car park from 3pm throughout December. BaSE Page 3 News from the Castle Hi everyone I cannot believe that we are already heading towards the end of the main season here at Castle Drogo. This year seems to have flown by! It has been wonderful to welcome visitors in to the newly presented Drawing and Dining rooms and we have had so many collection items back out on display, including the incredible tapestries which wrap the Billiards room. The difference outside is striking too with the main scaffolding down and the builders working hard to get the waterproofing work completed on the Kitchen and Scullery roof. The granite store area is looking pretty empty too. It is mainly the new granite slabs in there now, all cut and ready to lay across the final sections of the roof. The estate is gearing up for autumn splendour with a hint of red and gold starting to appear on the trees in the gorge. Thank you to everyone who has supported our work to improve butterfly habitats by buying a raffle ticket this year. Numbers are improving and many people were treated to sightings or some rare and unusual species over the summer. We are getting ready to open the castle for Christmas. We will re-open on Saturday 30 November right through to Monday 23 December with the castle dressed in 1920s style to celebrate when the Drewe family moved in to a not quite completed castle just for Christmas. We will be having a visit from a certain gentleman wearing a big red coat and a white beard on the 14, 15, 20, 21 and 22 December. Tickets to see Father Christmas are bookable on the Castle Drogo website. Best wishes, Paula Community Engagement Officer, Castle Drogo 01647 434130, [email protected]
Are you a rural micro business or sole trader? Are you interested in shaping the future of business support? Then the Engaging Rural Micros project wants to work with you! Engaging Rural Micros is a research trial to learn how to stimulate positive mindsets towards improving business efficiency. Micro businesses, freelancers and sole traders (less than 10 employees) make up 90.1% of Devon’s rural economy. Research suggests that there is a need for these rural micros to overcome their tendencies towards overworking, and increase time working on the business rather than in the business. Are you a business owner who can relate to this? Is your dream to increase efficiency within your business, free up time, and reach that elusive ‘work-life balance’? Then get involved in this new research trial! The trial will look at different ways of providing support to these businesses. All participating businesses will receive: • business monitoring for up to 12 months, completing three business analysis surveys over the course of the trial • a business insight report at the end of the project • information on the trial outcomes and future support • an invitation to an event at the end of the project, which will be a great networking opportunity for local businesses. The trial will be based in rural areas of Devon (outside of settlements with a population over 10,000). If you are a micro business owner, freelancer or sole trader, sign up online at www.engagingruralmicros.com or contact [email protected] before the end of December 2019. BaSE Page 4 Bridestowe Parish Council Meeting Report (November 2019) The air ambulance lighting mast in the Sporting Green is now fully operational for very occasional helicopter landings at night, for medical emergencies. This project has taken a long time to achieve and thanks go again to the very generous donations that enabled it to go ahead. These have included grants from the two parish councils, the Queen Bees, Devon Air Ambulance and a number of donations from the local community. A bonus with the project is that there are four electric points (40 amps) provided at the base of the mast that can be used for community events.
Thanks were given to all who participated in positioning the “Silent Soldier” on the village green, in particular to the volunteer group, Phil Down, Darren, Caroline and Jo.
Grants were awarded in support of Citizen’s Advice and also to the BaSE newsletter. Previous grants this year have been to Ring & Ride Community Transport and to Bridestowe Methodist Church for their community access improvement project.
Members of the public reported blocked drains in Launceston Road and two damaged street signs in Station road. One has been reported as repaired, the other at the entrance to the village is awaiting action from West Devon Borough Council. The kerbs/gutters in the village have been sprayed by our contractor to clear the weeds.
There were three planning notifications from West Devon Borough Council that were supported by the parish council: Application No: 3445/19/PDM. This was a notification for prior approval at Standon Farm, Bridestowe for the proposed change of use of an agricultural barn to a dwelling house.
Application No: 2794/19/LBC. This is for an extension and renovation at Phares Cottage. Bridestowe. Application No. 3174/19/AGR. This is for a proposed agricultural building at Lower Ebsworthy Farm. Bridestowe.
The next parish council meeting is on Thursday 9th January 2020, at 7.30 pm in the Methodist Church. Agendas and minutes for Bridestowe Parish Council meetings are displayed in the bus shelters and noticeboards in the parish, or on the Bridestowe web site at www.bridestowe.org.uk Contact details for Bridestowe Parish Council: Pete Daniels (Parish Clerk), 4 Trescote Way, Bridestowe. EX20 4QB. Tel: 01837 861244. Email [email protected]
The Devon Air Ambulance Trust mast in the Sporting Green is now fully operational. It can be classed as a community asset, with its power points and accessible floodlighting and it will be a useful adjunct for functions held on the Green. Please be aware that if an event is planned for the Sporting Green it will be necessary to let the DAAT know in advance. BaSE Page 5 Twelth Night Ball Nicholls Hall Lydford
Friday 10th January 2020
Dancing to ‘Feel Good Factory’
Admission £10
Tickets on the door
Finger food at 10pm
In aid of Cancer Research
We are very grateful for the grant awarded to help fund BaSE by Bridestowe Parish Council in November. This will meet the cost of paper and particularly toner for a goodly while. Martin and Alison Young
BaSE Page 6 Fox & Hounds Hotel
Bingo Lunch on Quiz Night on Monday 16th Friday 20th December December
Teams of 4 - 6 12 Noon or 2pm just for the bingo £3 per person starts at 7.30pm Two course lunch and bingo starting at 12 Raffle in the evening noon £15 per person to include tea and coffee The Fox & Hounds is helping Please come along for an William Warren to raise funds evening of fun in aid of helping for his cricket tour in South William Warren raise funds for Africa in February 2020 his cricket tour in south Africa in FEBRUARY 2020!!! ANY QUESTIONS CALL LISA ON 07833 912 464 OR FOX AND HOUNDS ON 01822 820206
Bridestowe Queen Bees At our meeting on Thursday 21st November in the Margaret Moore Suite of Bridestowe Village Hall, Penny Westlake showed us how to make a willow star decoration for Christmas. We bound 3 lengths of willow together to make each strut and then these 5 were tied together to make a simple star . By threading a string of fine LED lights around the outline, the star is illuminated. ( Packs of lights can be ordered online very cheaply). Penny suggested decorating the star with either ribbons, buttons, ivy, baubles, posies of greenery, felt shapes, etc Thanks to Penny and daughters Annie and Bella for leading this very enjoyable session; we all left clutching a really attractive decoration.
Christmas lunch The Bedford Hotel is booked for Thursday 9th January, arriving at 12.30 for lunch at 1pm. The cost is £19 for two courses or £24 for three courses. Could members who haven’t let Trisha Butler know if they are interested, please do so on 01837 861385. A £10 deposit is required.
Ideas for meetings in the new year were discussed; these included a talk on wellbeing and a pottery session, perhaps in February. Full details in January’s BaSE.
Reminder of Christmas Market The QBs will be serving mulled wine, non alcoholic spiced apple drink and mince pies. Could members please bring bottles of mulled wine and mince pies to the stall around 5pm. Thank you. BaSE Page 7 The Vicar writes... Do you remember the excitement of opening a present on Christmas morning as your favourite wished for toy or game finally arrives into your hands, only to open it and find a load of pieces that resembles nothing like the picture on the box and having to spend the rest of Christmas trying to decipher the assembly instructions? It can be further complicated when those instructions have been translated from another language. Speaking as someone who studies a book that was originally written in Hebrew or Greek and then translated into Latin and finally into English, I am fully aware of the dangers of literal reading. Here are some genuine translations of instructions from ‘Lost in Translation’ by Charlie Crocker:
Hong Kong Alarm Clock: To set alarm set alarm hand to time desired to wake. To change time desired to wake, reset alarm to the time desired to. Swedish flat-packed cabinet: It is advisory to be 2 people during assembly. Greek deodorant stick: Push up bottom. From owner’s manual of a Toyota car: Please do not listen to cassette while the radio is talking. Instructions on Japanese driving rules: At the rise of the hand of the policeman, stop rapidly. Do not pass him, otherwise disrespect him. Do not explosion the exhaust pipe. Avoid entanglement with your wheel spoke. Go soothingly on the grease mud as there lurks a skid demon. It wasn’t much better if you were given a video film to watch or a record to listen to. A dubbed version of Casablanca with English subtitles: For “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine”: “In all towns of the all worlds of all gin, her it connects to my ones which you walk.” Bootleg copy of a Meatloaf album includes the tracks: “You took the words right out of my mouse” and (for “two out of three ain’t bad”) “Sixty six percent is alright.” Of course you may wish to go away for Christmas: Danish Airline: We take your bags and send them in all directions. Recorded information line in Australia: If you understand English, press 1. If you do not understand English, press 2. German hotel in response to enquiry about accommodation: Having freshly taken over proprietry of this notorious house, I am wishful that you remove to me your esteemed costume. I give personal look into the interior want of each guest. Here you shall be well fed up and agreeably drunk.
And if you get to your destination always take notice of the notices: Swimming pool in France: Swimming is forbidden in the absence of the savior. Chinese temple: Please take one step forward and crap twice. If Christmas proves to be too expensive there is always this financial company in Detroit, USA: “Ask about our plans for owning your home.”
So take care, even leaving one letter out of a sentence could have adverse consequences, as this job applicant probably discovered with his covering letter: Thank you for your consideration. I hope to hear from you shorty!
Or indeed adding one letter, as these film titles demonstrate: The Lady Varnishes The Spy Who Loved Men Angela’s Rashes Of Mince and Men The Magnificent Steven
Let’s hope the spirit of Christmas is the same in any language. Adrian Brook BaSE Page 8 Sydney Who? by Howard Barkell
I was recently looking at a couple of postcards sent to my parents as Christmas greetings eighty odd years ago. Were they just sent because of nostalgia for an earlier time in their lives or because of something stronger, I wonder? It got me thinking about friendships and family relationships especially among the members of large families. When John Loveband Francis came as Rector of Bridestowe cum Sourton in 1889 he and his wife Laura brought with them their large family of three sons and five daughters. At various times elderly or unmarried family members also found refuge at the Rectory as well. It was his final move as a priest and he stayed until 1927, finally retiring at the age of 83. It appears that his sons were educated at Blundells, Tiverton. It is possible that the girls were educated at home. The eldest child, Laura Marion, never married and was referred to by the locals as Miss May. She was a good musician and stood in for her mother as church organist, although in those days it was probably a harmonium, and took solo parts in ambitious church projects like Stainer’s crucifixion. She was a Sunday School teacher and also President of the newly formed Women’s Institute. On leaving Bridestowe in 1927 she lived in St. Albans and was still living there when she died in 1943. The eldest son, John Edmund, matriculated from Blundells School in 1899 and went to London where he trained to be a doctor at University College Hospital. He worked there as a House Physician and at the North East Hospital for Children. He was also Resident Physician at Dunstan Park Sanatorium in Paignton. By 1905 he was living and practising at Northam, stayed in the area for the rest of his life and ended up as Medical Officer of Health for Northam Urban District Council. His daughter, Phyllis Mary, married into the Nott family and her son was John, born in 1932. He served with the Gurkha Rifles, studied at Cambridge University, was called to the Bar and eventually became M.P. for St. Ives. He was Secretary of State for Defence in the Thatcher Government at the time of the Argentinian invasion of the Falkland Islands. His political career ended when he didn’t seek re-election in 1983. Incidentally Lord Carrington who had spent part of his early life at Millaton was also part of that Thatcher government, two men with Bridestowe connections in the same government. Not many small villages can make that boast! Emily Margaret was born in 1872. She came with her parents to Bridestowe and remained there until her father retired doing the usual good works rector’s daughters were expected to do. At some stage she moved to Emsworth and died there in 1948. She and her elder sister sailed to Australia at least twice to visit another sister who had settled there. I still have those post cards they sent to my parents from the second voyage in 1938. Posted from the S.S. Orford at Colombo in November they wish folk at home a Happy Christmas. They are signed L. May Francis and Miss Margie. Sydney is perhaps the most intriguing of the Francis children because of all the unanswered questions about him. He went to Canada as a young man, returned once to this country on a brief visit and then again as a member of the Canadian Expeditionary Force in 1917. He joined the army at Brandon, Manitoba, although his initial efforts to claim a piece of land and become a settler were in Alberta. He was named on both his father’s and an aunt’s will, but seems to have either abandoned, or been abandoned by, his family. Was he considered a black sheep or did he just want to break free? He appears to have died a bachelor in 1940. Present day members of the family I spoke to didn’t even seem to know of his existence. How sad. Edith Mary was born in 1877. In June 1914 she married Harry Vaughan Gorle at Bridestowe. It was his second marriage, his first wife having died previously. Within three weeks they had sailed for South Africa where they intended to settle in the Transvaal. It was said that she had also played the church organ, been a Sunday School teacher and was captain of the Ladies Cricket team. He had retired as a major from the Army Service Corps and had served with distinction in the Boer War. He was responsible for supplying thousands of troops and civilians during the siege of Kimberley, for which he was highly commended and awarded the Distinguished Service Order. At the outbreak of war they returned to this country and the army and he served in Salonika being Mentioned in Dispatches. The son of his first marriage also returned from farming BaSE Page 9 in South Africa to serve in the Royal Artillery and he was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1918. Harry and Edith had a son and daughter and after the war both families settled in Northern Rhodesia. Edith and her children stayed at least once at the Rectory and on another occasion, perhaps to attend her father’s funeral, at Emsworth. Before the outbreak of the Second World War they had returned to this country and settled at Beyton near Bury St. Edmunds. During the war he was Head Warden of the local A.R.P. and she worked with the W.V.S. George Herbert, the youngest son, was educated at Blundells and Keble College, Oxford. He trained for the ministry at Wells Theological College and was ordained Deacon at Exeter in 1902. He served his curacy at Littleham, Exmouth, was at Long Ditton for a year before becoming curate at Bideford. Earl Fortescue offered him the living at Filleigh in 1914. He was a Chaplain to the Forces in France from 1917-19 and on release moved to Berkshire. He resigned from Waltham St. Lawrence in 1930 through ill health. By the beginning of the second world war he was at Maidenhead where he served as an A.R.P. Warden. He died there in 1951. Florence Mabel married Anthony Loveband at Bridestowe in 1912. He may have been a cousin. He had joined the navy as a Midshipman in 1899 and worked his way up the promotion ladder as a Signals Officer, retiring as a Lt. Com in 1919. The family settled in Emsworth (see Emily previous) and he continued to work as a Training Officer in the Naval Signal School. He died in 1942, his wife in 1971, both registered in Gosport. Blanche Ellen, the youngest of the family, married Charles Denny in 1913. He was a chartered accountant and during the war was seconded to munition production. After the war he managed a soap and perfumery business partly owned by his family. When this was taken over in 1921 he decided to emigrate and grow lavender on a commercial scale. He chose Tasmania because the climate resembled that in the part of southern France from where he obtained his seeds. The family emigrated in late 1921 and settled at Lilydale. They named their farm Bridestowe. After small beginnings and the owner’s vision and ingenuity, carried on by his two sons, the business thrived and the estate developed into the world-famous business it is today. The boys were educated in this country and Tim was a decorated R.A.F. war hero. After a crash landing he returned to the blazing wreck and rescued a trapped crew member. Blanche died in 1956. Right up to her death we used to receive Christmas gifts of lavender scented products made at Bridestowe. Charles died in 1975. Members of the Denny family last visited Bridestowe in 2014. Members from various branches of the Francis family kept in touch with my family until their deaths, so Bridestowe and some of its folk must have had happy memories for them. Perhaps people generally had a greater sense of community back then.
The December meeting of the For sale: THURSDAY MORNING GROUP will be our Christmas lunch at the Honda Jazz - 07 plate, White Hart on Thursday December petrol 12th, 12 for 12.30p.m. Don’t forget to Dark grey, 116K miles on bring a wrapped “secret Santa” gift to the clock go in the sack. Please ring me if you MOT expires in end May would like to come and haven’t yet 2020 given me your menu choices. £1000.00 After that, the next date for your diary In excellent condition, new battery fitted at will be a coffee morning at 10.30a.m. the end of October and recent service on Thursday January 16th at 3 Crandford Close. Call 07854 206 400 Ann Allan on 861551 BaSE Page 10 TOM FOSTER’S ARCHITECTURE COLUMN Here’s a scenario. The children have grown and finally left the nest. The house feels a bit empty, and a bit ragged, after 20-odd years of youthful whirlwind. The ‘parent’ concept transforms gently into ‘grandparent’, with an awareness, more than ever, of roots and network right here, and a home still, for happy visits of friends and family. Living costs ease, while maturing assets may appear, and tempting ways to spend some money at last. A well-equipped mobile home? (but the depreciation!) Or how about this? … My clients were rightly fond of their 70s estate house and garden with stunning Dartmoor view, though it badly needed to up its game for the 21st Century, to support their new lifestyle, hopefully for several healthy decades to come. This is how they chose to invest their available funds, for accumulating benefit: Internally, easy spaciousness and light were created by opening up cramped old-fashioned notions of ‘proper’ layout, with no loss of privacy or facility. The poky entrance hall became a welcoming ‘room’ with the existing stair now rising elegantly from it, with plenty of practical space for coats and boots. Externally, a modest front extension created a new wheelchair-accessible shower/WC opening off the hallway (relaxed preparedness for a maybe-future) and roof overhanging generously as porch. Above, a trio of rather naff dormers were infilled together, with handsome new roof overall, creating much ‘new’ useful bedroom space, with little disruption. The former garage, already crudely adapted, was re-modelled as a splendid, lofty multi-purpose utility room with very large front porch for logs, bikes etc. And, for the real double-benefit, the whole house was uprated to a high eco-standard of insulation, airtightness and controlled 24/7 ventilation. The effect is that the boiler rarely fires for heating (only for hot water); complete freedom from either draughts or stuffy over-heating; and an effortless warm welcome on return from a day’s windy walking on the Moor, heating having been switched off. The previous heavy heating bills are slashed to a fraction, for ever more. The air in the house feels healthy and mountain-fresh. I have to emphasise three things: First, this ‘high eco-standard’, and its benefits, was far in advance of current Building Regulations and of normal building industry ideas of adequacy; Second, its re-thought construction was in many ways easier, robust and cheaper to do, using standard building techniques and materials, than normal building industry practice, which seems to just add layers of expensive fail-prone proprietary products on top of the age-old standard approach; Third, this ‘high eco-standard’ was not at all about expensive ‘active’ machinery like solar panels, heat pumps etc, but centred on systematically-detailed ‘passive’ insulation, airtightness and controlled 24/7 ventilation, including economic Scandinavian-quality triple glazed windows and doors replacing the tired plastic windows. By reducing the house’s heat loss to almost nothing for most of the year, everything else could relax! Compared to its somewhat flaky neighbours, my clients’ estate house now looks really ‘together’, confidently solid and well-conceived – handsome you would say. All thanks to expert design, both visual and eco-technical, choice of a careful and willing eco-builder, and supervised construction so everything came out ‘just right’. This was not a radical re-hash – just ‘smart’ modifications that are really only skin-deep – but such a rejuvenated skin!This full-21st-century house uprate cost the same as a top-spec camper van but the year-round life-enhancing benefits, running-cost savings and resale value will accrue and accrue, long after the camper van is consigned to a decaying grave.I specialise in new, old and historic buildings, for work or home. Expert in EcoBuilding, ‘Passive House’, Planning Permission, DNPA, Building Regs, build-contract admin;or perhaps you’d just like some can-do advice.
Talk to Tom to bring your vision closer. 01647 24436 www.TomFosterArchitecture.co.uk [email protected] BaSE Page 11 December Events at Okehampton Library
2-23 December Surprise Reads Fancy trying a different author or genre? Take your chances on one of our Opening hours: surprise reads! Pick up a hand-wrapped book and ask a member of staff to Mon 09:00 - 17:00 issue it on to your library ticket. Will you wait until Christmas morning to Tue 09:00 - 18:00 unwrap it?? Free Wed 09:00 - 13:00 Friends of Okehampton Library Christmas Quiz & Hamper Draw Thu 09:00- 17:00 Christmas Quiz’s are available during December, £1 per entry, return Fri 09:00 - 18:00 completed entries by 3 January. First prize £10 book token, Second prize £5 Sat 09:00 - 13:00 book token Hamper Draw Tickets £1 each. Winner to be drawn 20 December Wednesday 11 December 16:30 ‘Boo to a Goose Theatre - Christmas Show’ An interactive and multi-sensory show. Ages 2-8 and their families. A jolly old couple, with help from some cheeky elves and the Gingerbread Man, share their memories and stories, singalong songs and festive activities. Tickets in advance, £5 per child. Under 2’s free if accompanying an older sibling Thursday 12 December 10:00 - 11:30 Christmas Coffee Morning and Choir Come and join the staff for coffee and mince pies. For this festive occasion the school choirs of Exbourne and Bridestowe Primary will kindly be performing. Free, donations welcome Calling All Young Volunteers! Are you aged 14-19? Do you love reading? Would you like to help your local community? Why not help out in Okehampton Library on Saturday mornings? Collect an application form in branch
For details of regular events for adults, children and young people, plus any additional events and library services, please see our library website or Facebook page www.devonlibraries.org.uk Tel: 01837 52805 BaSE Page 12 Christmas Table Decoration Workshop Thursday 19th December 7 - 9pm Bridestowe Methodist Chapel Tickets £10 (must be purchased in advance) Includes everything needed for 1 large table centre, a glass of mulled wine & nibbles
Jo Pritchard – 861114 / [email protected]
All proceeds will go to Bridestowe School environmental area
A date for your 2020 diary For Sale: Second hand cream electric AGA - pre 74, in excellent condition - hardly used Available to view at Elaine’s Stoves, Fatherford Industrial Estate £3450 ono. Contact Jade Oliver-Deacon on 07854 206 400
Okehampton needs you on Sunday 1st December Volunteers needed to come and decorate the town’s Christmas trees Outside Donald’s Menswear, from 07.00am Please help decorate your local town!
BaSE Page 13 Movie Watch - Despite miserable weather (and some unexceptional recent films), you find your correspondent in ebullient form. Word has reached Movie Watch HQ of yet another reader - and not just a traditional, hard copy supporter. Far from it. It would appear we are being consumed, at a considerable distance, via the Internet of all things. I mean, how exciting is that? At this rate the column’s burgeoning readership will soon crash into double figures. Sadly our remote readers, together with local regulars, have thinnish pickings on which to exist this month.
The Aeronauts promised much, in the shape of an intriguing storyline, excellent cast and big budget, but delivered a disappointing muddle of a film. This is a biographical adventure directed by Tom Harper (Wild Rose) and starring Felicity Jones and Eddie Redmayne, both terrific in The Theory of Everything, together with Himesh Patel (Yesterday) and Donald Sutherland (over 50 years of fine films, plus a few shockers). The Aeronauts covers the exploits of fearless hot air balloon pilot Amelia Wren (Felicity Jones) and dour weather scientist James Glaisher (Redmayne). Glaisher was a British aeronaut who, in September 1862, took part in a successful attempt on the world flight altitude record, ascending to 39,000 feet. Wren, rather disappointingly, is a composite fictional character, drawing on aspects of various inspirational 19th century female aviators. Her husband had died in a ballooning accident some years earlier and is recalled in a series of confusing flashbacks.
Glaisher’s companion, on his record-breaking ascent, was actually another heroic scientist, Henry Coxwell, but the film-makers decided that a glamorous female presence would add Box Office appeal. While the spectacle of the balloon journey is compelling and hugely impressive, it’s not enough to make up for an uninspired, plodding script in which a key plot point is Glaisher neglecting to pack a suitable coat or gloves for the expedition. What’s more, the constant bickering of the two characters soon starts to grate. The film is unquestionably lovely to look at, with breathtaking aerial imagery, but if their balloon had as many holes as the plot, the whole affair would have been over much quicker. And that wouldn’t have been a bad thing. I couldn’t seriously recommend The Aeronauts but last month’s other film, Official Secrets, is worthy of note. This is a docudrama based on the true story of the whistleblower Katharine Gun who leaked an e-mail revealing that the US had eavesdropped on diplomats tasked with approving a UN resolution endorsing the invasion of Iraq. The heroic Gun is superbly played by Keira Knightley, ably supported by a fine cast including Ralph Fiennes and Matt Smith, fresh from his portrayal of the young Prince Philip in the first two Netflix series of The Crown. (It’s outside my BaSE remit but this, incidentally, is the best TV historical drama of recent years and well worth tracking down).
Gun is a translator working for British security services at the GCHQ surveillance unit in Cheltenham. In 2003, she was horrified to receive an email making it clear she was expected to uncover incriminating personal details of UN representatives, so they could be blackmailed into voting for the Iraq war. Gun printed the email and passed it to an anti-war activist friend. Eventually it formed the basis of a sensational front-page feature in the Observer.
Her intervention didn’t stop the war, as Gun had hoped it might, but played an important part in turning press and public opinion. In a terrifying development, Gun was prosecuted under the Official Secrets Act before being cleared. Official Secrets manages to be thought provoking, educational and entertaining all at once. As such it earns a confident recommendation. BaSE Page 14 Meanwhile there’s plenty to see at the New Carlton over the next few weeks. Le Mans ’66 (Christian Bale, Matt Damon) and Last Christmas (written by and starring the ubiquitous Emma Thompson, featuring the music of George Michael) will both run into December, but the Okehampton decks will be cleared for two other major releases. Frozen 2 opened in late-November, while 19th December will see the first New Carlton showing of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. In the latter, viewers will be taken on an epic journey to a galaxy far, far away where they’ll witness the riveting conclusion of the seminal Skywalker saga. New legends will be born although the final battle for freedom is yet to come. I shan’t be joining them but I’m sure they could squeeze you in somewhere. Looking into the New Year, local residents of a certain persuasion will have the opportunity to sing along and celebrate the 70th birthday of global violin phenomenon Andre Rieu. The man with hair styled from used Brillo Pads will once again be delighting his West Devon fan base on Saturday 4th January, with the whole thing repeated 24 hours later. I imagine advance booking will be required for all titles mentioned here. But in the meantime may I be the first to wish you a Merry Christmas, whether you’re in Bridestowe, Sourton…………or in a galaxy far, far away!
DAVID HARRISON November 2019
Calling all Rural Business women Do you work on your own? Would you like to network with likeminded business women? Are you looking for support and collaboration? Would you like to exercise more but don’t have time? Do you want to look after your health and wellbeing? Join our business network and see your health and business blossom. We meet at: Venue: Sourton Village Hall The format of the meetings Sourton, Okehampton, Devon Meet in the hall EX20 4HN • 1-minute introduction of our businesses. Every 3rd Friday of the month • Women can then choose who they want to Time: 12 noon until 2pm connect with whilst walking. Tea, coffee and biscuits included • Once walking, every 5-10 minutes we will choose a Please bring a packed lunch different person to speak with. To book visit Eventbrite or email • Refreshments will be provided after the walk and [email protected] you can continue to network.
BaSE Page 15 BaSE Page 16 The Quakers in Okehampton now meet every Sunday 10:30-11:30 at the Dartmoor Room in the Ockment Centre, North Street.
The worship is silent and meditative with some contributions from members. All visitors will receive a warm welcome.
Enquiries to the Clerk of the Meeting, Barbara Childs email: [email protected]
THIS IS A NEW TEAM WITH LADIES WHO WANT TO KEEP FIT IN A FRIENDLY TEAM ENVIRONMENT
BaSE Page 17 Bridestowe Churches Partnership
News from Bridestowe Methodist Church We have been working hard for months to raise money for our ARK Project. We thank you for your prayers and support. What a lovely atmosphere in the village for our Lightquest evening. Thank you to all the parents and grandparents who helped with the clues. With a very busy Christmas time approaching we have decided to give the fund raising a break but are planning for the spring.
The chapel will be open on the 10th December for the village Fair - come and join us for a tea or coffee The 50/50 shop is now closed. Thanks to all who have supported us over the years.
Sunday Services: 1st December 11am. Joint Service at the Methodist Church with Rev Graham Warmington - Cafe Style. 8th December 11am. Service with Mrs Daisy Bray. 15th December 11am Service with A Kelly 15th December 6.30pm Joint Carol Service at the Parish Church 22nd Note Time! 3pm Service with Carols and mince pies in support of Action for Children. 25th December - Christmas Day Service at 10am - Come and join us as we welcome the Baby Jesus. 29th December 11am Service with Alison Morgan.
St Bridget’s Church Services in December 1st Joint Service at Methodist Chapel 11.00am 8th Morning Prayer 9.30am 15th Holy Communion (said BCP) 8.00am Messy Church Crib Service at Bratton 9.30am Traditional Lessons and Carols by Candlelight 6.30pm
22nd Morning Prayer 9.30am 24th Midnight Mass 11.00pm 29th Holy Communion Group service 11.00am
St. Bridget’s Church Bells The bells may be rung as follows: each Friday between 19.00 - 21.00 and for services in the church. For more information or to come along and have a go contact Bill Thirtle on 01837 861256
Please note: there won’t be a ‘Bacon Baps’ session in December as there’s a wedding in the village hall on our usual day. BaSE Page 18 The Over 60’s Luncheon Club will meet on Tuesday 10th December in the usual place, last time before we srart the up-dating. Make sure that you let us know if you can come by ringing Brian or Ruth on 861402. ( Booking essential ) We will be going to the White Hart on Tuesday 14th January for our Christmas Meal, book your place with Brian.
The 59 Club - supporting Bridestowe’s village hall Wednesday 11th December November A BLAST FROM THE PAST - Medieval instruments 2nd 40 unallocated including playing them! 9th 31 Peter Daniels Jonathan Weeks 16th 17 Rose Young Jonathan Weeks has been collecting and playing 23rd 31 Peter Daniels medieval musical instruments since studying It was very encouraging to have a Archaeology at Reading University. He first became couple of new members joining in interested in them through their depictions in November and I wish them luck. medieval art and the pioneering work of David Munrow and the Early Music Consort. There are 3 special Christmas prizes Dartmoor that will be drawn from members’ DFAS hold most meetings on the second numbers. Remember it’s never too late Wednesday of each month at the Charter Hall, to join. Market Street, Okehampton. Coffee will be served Alison Young 01837 861157 from 9.45am and lectures start promptly at ali.young53@btinternet .com 10.30am
Okehampton Recycling Centre Lunar cycle for Winter opening times December (October - March ) Monday - Friday New moon 26th 9am - 4.30pm First quarter 4th Saturday & Sunday Full moon 12th 10am - 4.30pm Last quarter 19th
So what do you call those days between Christmas and New Year? From ‘Twixmas’ to ‘the longest Sunday’ the name of that strange period between Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve has been the topic of much discussion. Often it’s time spent relaxing, eating too much and forgetting what day it is. The Norwegians call this period of time ‘Romjul’, and it’s a state of mind more than anything else. A time of rest both physically and mentally, Romjul is about slowing life down, relaxing and reconnecting with friends and family to reflect on the year behind, before welcoming the new one. It’s no stress, no deadlines, and definitely no drama!
BaSE Page 19 BaSE Page 20 Thank you: I would like to thank all those people that have been kind enough to think of me, send me a card, or pass on their condolences since my Mum passed away. It has meant a lot at this very difficult time - thank you. Jade Oliver-Deacon BaSE Page 21 ECOSIA You search the web, we plant trees Ecosia is like any other search engine, with one major difference: we use our profits to plant trees.We stand for a better internet. Completely transparent We publish monthly financial reports and tree- planting receipts. These show exactly how much money we made from your searches, and what percentage of our revenue went towards trees. All profits stay within the company and will eventually either be invested or used for tree planting. Ecosia does not pay out any dividends to its owners. Privacy friendly We don’t sell your data to advertisers, have no third party trackers and anonymize all searches within one week. Add Ecosia to Firefox www.ecosia.org
BaSE Page 22 White Hart Quiz in aid of Bridestowe Cricket Club Wednesday 11th December 8pm Guest Quiz Master Jo Pritchard Rounds will include festive and cricket themes as well as the classics
As you may know the Cricket Club was the victim of a break in recently, during which our new generator was stolen. The club had been fortunate enough to secure some funding to purchase the generator and unfortunately it is unlikely we will be able to access this again so soon. We therefore need to raise as much as we can towards a new generator to ensure there will be power at the club before next season.
Please come along and support your local club
Thank you very much to everyone who supported my annual Christmas Fayre in 3, West Street, Okehampton November. It was a Father Christmas at the Museum wonderful evening, raising over £230 for ThePromise. This will go straight to giving the gift of Portage to even more disabled children living in institutions in Russia Jo Pritchard
Father Christmas will be visiting the museum during Okehampton’s Edwardian Evening on Thursday 5th December Traditional standing seam metal roofing 5:30 - 8:30pm. Specialising in zinc, copper, aluminium and £5 per child includes a gift and stainless steel Free quotes Christmas crafting. Mike 07732 756 774 James 07713 193 493 Tel: 01837 52295 [email protected] www.TomFosterArchitecture.co.uk Specialist in new, old and historic buildings for work or home. Expert in Eco-Building, ‘Passive House’, DNPA, Planning Permission, Building Regs,build-contract admin, or just some can-do advice. Ring 01647 24436 to bring your vision closer. BaSE Page 23 SOURTON ROUNDUP December 2019 Sourton Friendship Group We very much enjoyed our last meeting making Christmas Crackers under the supervision of Janet and Mary. Janet kindly hosted the meeting at her home and spoilt us with delicious refreshments. We have been invited by the Westbridge Quilters to join them on 12th December for their Christmas celebrations. Looking ahead, we shall be going to the Fox & Hounds on 14th January 2020 for our New Year celebration lunch 12.30 pm for 1 pm.
Helen Alford We were all saddened to hear of Helen’s death. She has been part of Sourton village life for many years since coming to live here when she married Roger. She has been very active in serving the local community here in Sourton and the wider community elsewhere with enthusiasm and dedication. Helen was a founder member of our local playgroup committee and supported the church in many fund-raising activities, helping at our harvest suppers and on the flower rota. She faced illness and her disability with courage and cheerfulness. Our love and prayers are with Roger, Paul and all her family and friends.
Stuart Long Stuart was tragically killed in a road accident aged 65, and many of us at Sourton have known him all his life. Our love and prayers are with his wife Mags, his children, his mother Val, his sister Sandra and all his family and many friends.
Interment of Ashes Dominic Harrison – grandson of the late Peter and Sybella Collier, was laid to rest in his grandparents grave. We send our condolences to his parents Kathy and Jim, his brother Marcus and all the family. Christine Corley – lived at Keasts, Southerly for many years and was laid to rest with her late husband. Our condolences are with her daughter Sue and all the family.
Remembrance Day Service We would like to thank Beverley Johnson for coming from Okehampton to officiate at our moving service and Brenda Harris for kindly playing the organ. The church had been beautifully decorated. Andrew Horn (Chairman) was present to lay a wreath on behalf of Sourton Parish Council. The collection of £74 has been sent to the Royal British Legion for their wonderful work.
Christingle Service We are very much looking forward to our Christingle Service which is on Advent Sunday 1st December at 4 pm. Treetops Pre-School children will be performing their Nativity Play and we warmly welcome everyone to join us in the hall afterwards for refreshments. All proceeds are for the wonderful work of the Childrens Society who work tirelessly with young vulnerable people to bring light and hope into their lives.
Hall Lottery November 1st 57 Daniel Fogerty 2nd 24 Marcia Horn 3rd 113 Alison Horn December 1st 51 Ivor Pellow 2nd 71 Beryl South 3rd 44 Roger Alford BaSE Page 24 Future Dates 1st December 4 pm Christingle Service in church followed by tea in the hall 22nd December 4 pm Carol Service with mince pies and festive drink. Collection for the Salvation Army . Church Services in December 1st 8 am Prayer Book Holy Communion – Rev. Adrian Brook 4 pm Christingle Service in church followed by tea in hall – Beverley Johnson 8th 4.30 pm Taizè Service for Christmas – Rev. Adrian Brook 15th 11 am Common Worship Holy Communion – Rev. Adrian Brook 22nd 4 pm Carol Service in aid of Salvation Army – Rev. Adrian Brook 25th 9.30 am Christmas Day Communion – Rev. Adrian Brook 29th 11 am Group Holy Communion at Bridestowe – Rev. Adrian Brook
We send best wishes for a very Happy Christmas and a New Year blessed with good health to all BaSE readers from Sourton. Rose Dashper
Seasonal Antidote to Commercialism Treat yourself to a bit of sanctuary this Advent Sunday 8th December Taize Chants at Sourton Church, 4.30pm Listen to relaxing Taize singing in the peaceful setting of St. Thomas a Becket church. Saturday 21st December Mindfulness at Bratton Clovelly Schoolroom, 11.30am - 2.00pm An introduction to mindfulness workshop followed by a bring and share lunch. Calm the mind and celebrate the winter solstice.
Treasurer required for Bridestowe Village Hall – Voluntary Post
Duties include – managing the bank accounts and cash flow. Recording payments and receipts, and West Devon Borough Council fund a reconciling the bank statements. home improvement loan scheme Basic knowledge of spread sheets for homeowners and landlords*. required. The invoicing for hall hirers We understand the expense of maintaining your home. We want to help you to take the stress out of funding repairs, is managed by another trustee and improvements or adaptations to your home. full support will be given at handover. We see you as an individual, not a credit score. If you are interested and would like For a free, no obligation home visit or more information: further information please contact Contact Wessex Resolutions CIC on 01823 461099 or visit Esther Winter on www.wessexresolutions.org.uk 01837 861111 – we would love to hear *Subject to eligibility from you.
Would you like to book Sourton Parish Hall? Sourton Parish Hall has good facilities and would be suitable for a variety of functions and meetings. It offers a large hall, kitchen, disabled toilet, committee room and large stage. It has disabled /wheelchair access with ramped entrances. To book or for more information contact Geraldine Jury 01837 861414 or Chris Heron 01837 861523 email: [email protected] Website - www.sourtonvillagehall.org.uk Facebook - Sourton Village Hall SourtonVH BaSE Page 25 THE WHITE HART INN, BRIDESTOWE
Nr Okehampton, Devon Tel: 01837 861318
QUIZ NIGHT Opening hours: Wednesday 11th Monday - Friday 12 - 3pm 5pm -close in aid of Saturday and Sunday Bridestowe Cricket and bank holidays open all day Club Home-cooked food served between 12 - 2pm and 6pm - 9pm
Families and dogs welcome
Every Wednesday 12-2pm, OAPs Fish & chips with peas and bread and butter £5.95
The White Hart Christmas Draw Why not take part in our annual Christmas draw? Just 50p a number. The first prize is £100 plus various other prizes. It will be drawn on Christmas Eve at 9pm and a complimentary curry will be served.
On New Year’s Eve there will be Karaoke starting at 9pm.
We would like to thank all our customers for their support throughout the year and wish everyone a very happy Christmas and New Year ------On a more serious note, Mike and Sarah have been saddened by the damage done to their car park sign, particularly as they have worked hard to maintain the external appearance of the White Hart and grounds, sitting as it does in the centre of the village. The scratches have defaced the sign and it will cost in the region of £300 to replace.
Dog walking and pet sitting Qualified dog behaviourist. BSc Hons degree. Training, or walk and train. All sizes and types. Reactive dogs a speciality. Individual or small groups of dogs, (no more than 4 compatible dogs walked together). Ring me on 07568 537 532 for a chat. BaSE Page 26 The National Trust - News from Lydford Gorge Rose Cooke, Visitor Experience Officer As I write this I’ve just finished tidying up and sorting out from the Halloween trail. All the props and equipment have gone back into storage to use next year. If you missed it, the theme of this year’s Halloween trail was the rangers. A band of skeleton rangers took over witch’s wood to showcase the work they do to look after the gorge. From a skeleton up a tree with a chainsaw, to fixing a step, monitoring bird boxes, attending a first aid incident, litter-picking and all importantly having a well-earned tea break. As well as being fun for all the family, hopefully there were also some key lessons to learn – take your litter home or the scary skeleton ranger will be coming after you!
The new Pixie Glen bridge will be going in this winter to replace the condemned wooden one currently in place. This will be a big project, partly due to the sensitive environment that it’s going into, as well as the inaccessible location. The project has been designed to keep the impact on the site to a minimum whilst giving us a long-lasting bridge that will inspire visitors to take in the beauty of the gorge.
The rangers are busy with the usual winter inspections; trees, rock faces, steps, handrails and bridges. This is their main opportunity to do the bigger jobs while the paths are shut for safety and maintenance. This year they must deal with several ash trees that are suffering from ash dieback. A fungal disease that can kill ash trees, eventually making them prone to dropping dead limbs and so too hazardous to work on. Unfortunately, there are several trees next to the footpaths that will need to be taken out over the coming months. The work needs to be done in winter before the birds start nesting. This may look drastic in the gorge but in the long term has the benefit of improving diversity, allowing new trees to get established and helping the woodland last long into the future.
What’s coming up… Pick up a Dartmoor Christmas tree Sat 7 & Sun 8 Dec, 11am-3pm As well as choosing the perfect tree there will be local craft and food producers in the shop and activities to entertain the kids.
Opening Times December to February the Waterfall trails are open every day 10am-3.30pm. The shop and Devil’s Cauldron tea-room will be open Friday to Sunday 10am-3.30pm until Sunday 22 December. The full gorge will re-open from Saturday 29 February 2020.
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge Facebook: LydfordGorge Instagram: lydford.gorge.nt Lydford Gorge National Trust, Lydford, Nr Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4BH Tel: 01822 820320 Registered Charity Number 205846
Okehampton Auctions Unit 1 Fatherford Farm, Exeter Road, Okehampton Next auction Wednesday 4th December. The viewing takes place from 10am - 1pm Monday 12p.m. - 6.p.m. on the Tuesday and from 8.30a.m. on the day of the sale, with the sale commencing at 10 a.m. Approximately 1000 lots
BaSE Page 27 The Moor Hair Co at 3 St James Street, Okehampton In the heart of the town, our experienced team of stylists is always pleased to see you. We pride ourselves on offering a high standard of hairdressing in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, so come in and talk through your hair needs. To make an appointment, call 01837 658696
Raw Meat Animal Feed for Dogs & Cats Convenient 400g blocks Frozen to preserve No preservatives and no artificial colourings - both can be harmful to your animal Raw Rations Plus For information or to order: website: www.rawrations plus .co.uk Phone: 07831096666 or 01566 783079 Email: [email protected] Post: Fairview Bungalow, Lewdown, Okehampton EX20 4DL
All aspects of carpentry and construction. • Solid wood and laminate • Renovations flooring • Hanging and fitting doors • Kitchens • Joinery • Bespoke pieces • Roofing • Decking and fencing • Free quotes Tel: 07710665379 Email: [email protected]
AVON For more information on Avon products or if you would like a catalogue, please contact Emma Jenkins Email: emze1996@yahoo. co.uk Facebook Emma’s Avon
Book keeping & VAT Returns Basic Payment Scheme Farm Record Keeping Stewardship applications Farm Assurance Water regulations Payroll Waste Exemptions Grazing Licences Fiona StaceyTel: 07870 632395/ 01566 783418 Email: [email protected] Unusual ‘Thumbprint Art’ products from For all things Usborne Penny McInnes For more information on Usborne books, please contact: Thumbprint Art greetings cards and postcards Jackie Butler with local views are available from Bridestowe Stores. Independent Usborne Organiser Elsie’s Book Corner Available from me are cards with pictures of 07828323473 other locations, and A4 and 7” x 9” prints. [email protected] me on They are in clear sleeves, and cheap and easy Facebook - Elsie’s Book Corner to frame. They make unusual treats for yourself or presents which are ideal for posting. There are numerous designs, mostly local, Cornwall coast and harbours abroad.
For details of the full range and prices, ring me, Penny McInnes, on 01837 861364 or email [email protected]
COMMISSIONS ACCEPTED.
Ian Cann Professionally installed....kitchens...... bedrooms...... bathrooms • Full supply and fit service • Replacement doors and worktops • Bespoke painted kitchens • Made to measure bedrooms • Wall and floor tiling Free quotes and advice Tel: 01837 861480 Mobile: 07841043718 Email: [email protected] Michael Lashbrook Any job undertaken! Garden Services - Treework - Hedge cutting Tel: 0751 397 5711 Email: [email protected]
Tony Day - Plumbing and Gas services Main and LPG gas appliances serviced and repaired Phone 01837 83702 Mobile 07773 966 201 BaSE Page 29 Alder Vinyard We are open for Tours, Tastings and Garden Walks. Shop now open every Saturday 10 - 4pm (out of hours, please call ahead or check our website) Bottles of our wine available from Scrap cars collected Riverside Stores Tel . 01837 52805 Reliable service guaranteed Lewdown EX20 4PJ www.aldervineyard.uk Top prices paid Secondhand tyres for sale. Call Michael on LOCAL PLUMBER Est. 30 Years Bridestowe & district 07831698676 Call Mick on: 01566 783562 / 07984 812807
SAM ALLUM Boiler Maintenance FOR SERVICING AND BREAKDOWN OF OIL BOILER Call: 01822 610 668 Mobile: 07832 024 948 Email:[email protected] • Competitive rate • Friendly, tidy and efficient • Call now for a quote
Champion Tree Services All aspects of Tree Surgery and Garden maintenance undertaken Felling, Reductions, Hedge trimming, Strimming, Grass cutting, Ground maintenance Also quality firewood supplied Fully insured Thrushel View, Lewdown Tel: 07881 288093
INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE Includes upper back, shoulders, neck,upper arms, head and face massage PEDICURE SPA Includes soaking feet in natural herbs, removing dead skin with herbs, cuticle treatment, cutting, filing, buffing and polish toe nails MANICURE SPA Includes soaking fingers,cutting,filing, cuticle treatment, buffing and polishing nails. DISCOUNT FOR PENSIONERS ALSO AVAILABLE: PARAFFIN WAX TREATMENT FOR HANDS AND FEET
R.H. GARDEN AND HANDYMAN SERVICES
Lawn mowing and strimming Hedge trimming Digging and planting Leaf clearing Power washing Gutters cleared Car washing Painting and decorating Over 20 years experience
Call Richard on 01837 861220 or mobile 07939574767 Email; [email protected] BaSE Page 30 Golden Leaf Landscapes R&B REMOVALS Garden Construction, Design and Maintenance friendly & efficient service 24/7 Louise and Robert Mogridge Fully qualified with over 15 years experience · regular trips to London 01837 89285 07811781137 · local/long distance www.goldenleaflandscapes.co.uk · secure storage
Caroline Harris, ALAB, Bookkeeping CALL ROB ON Services 01837 880336 or 07583 220243 • Bookkeeping • Accounts preparation Reiki treatments - • VAT relax and unwind with a 1 hour • Secretarial services treatment in a beautiful setting on • Many years office and business experience the slopes of Dartmoor. Tel 01566 783 502 Mobile 07866 953708 Call Danielle Email: [email protected] 01822 820 379, The Old Chapel, Portgate Hill, Lewdown, EX204PX Burn Cottage, Lydford.
MOOR CLEANING SERVICES
Domestic Cleaning Holiday Lets River Walks Ironing House/Pet Sitting Home Support Over 16 years veterinary experience Liability Insured Dogs, cats, small animals to small holdings and special needs pets cared Tel. - Paula 07885 742 908 for. Also dog walking and cleaning Email - [email protected] available Please call Louise on 07968698641
CROSSGREEN WOODWORKS Established Cabinetmakers and Specialist Joinery. Proprietors Ginette and Brian Nobbs. Crossgreen Woodworks, Lower Cross Farm, Lifton,Devon, PL15 9SL, • HAND PAINTED SHAKER STYLE kitchens made in our workshop • SECOND NATURE bespoke quality kitchens • FREESTANDING solid wood kitchens • Compare our prices with other kitchen suppliers, you will find our kitchens are very competitively priced. We are happy to cross price any quote you have had. Telephone 01566 784216 www.crossgreen-woodworks.co.uk email: [email protected] BaSE Page 31 RobACE Construction Tiling, Bathroom & Kitchen renovations Your trusted, experienced and insured local builder
www.race-construction.co.uk [email protected]
Tel: 07405 878 632 New advertiser
Rob McBain Tree Services Trained, Certified & Insured All tree work undertaken Hedge laying & pruning Fencing 07824 980 198 [email protected] BaSE Page 32 Handy -Van Man and Van - Ready to Help! Removals - Clearances - Labouring Local or long distance. Careful, safe deliveries. Any job considered, big or small. Reasonable rates Tel: 01837 811172
Guitar lessons :- for beginners and intermediate - all styles Tel: 01837 861415 or visit www.jeffguitar.co.uk for more details
Workshop dates
High quality flowers tailor -made for all occasions Free local delivery around Okehampton area Gift vouchers available Workshop dates 30th November - Luxury Christmas door wreath Workshop (also on 1st, 6th, 7th and 11th December) 20th & 21st December - Creative Christmas tables and baubles Workshop More information on www.halleyfloraldesign.co.uk and my facebook page
01837 861725 or 07380 194380 More information can be found on the website www.halleyfloraldesign.co.uk or call Bev on 01837 861725
Robert & Nicholas McNamara 01566 783471 Specialists in round the clock care, repair and maintenance of all of your Plumbing and Central Heating Services Domestic, Agricultural and Light Industrial Domestic Oil Fired Boilers & associated services Proper craftsmen taking a pride in what we do! 07596 9972071 / 07599078805 No call out charges Mini Digger Hire -1½ ton Very Competitive Rates Telephone: 01837 861 509 Mobile: 07748344978 Woodhead, Bridestowe, Okehampton
EDZ Chimney sweeping Valeting service Painting and decorating service sensible Car, van or whatever you have service. prices - vac and brush for valeting - collection and Interior and exterior work . Also window delivery service. Reasonable rates cleaning service Prices from £25 - £45 Free quotes 01837 861604 Mobile 07902913627
Are you tired, overworked, overstretched and under pressure? Is your business out of control and you’re missing deadlines? Have you fallen into the entrepreneur’s trap? I create space and time for you to focus on the priorities of your business allowing it to grow and function more efficiently. My name is Chris Heron. and I offer Virtual PA and Business Administration Support. I’m passionate about supporting small businesses and in particular. women in business, to reach their full potential. So, it you want to get organised and get stuff done, let’s have a chat
DARREN PHARE, MOTOR ENGINEER, BRIDESTOWE GARAGE. Cars, Light Goods and 4X4s – servicing, repairs, welding, MOT preparation and MOTs arranged. Tel: 01837 861770 or Mobile: 07773 669097 BaSE Page 34 Redstones Independent Funeral Directors - Established for Five Generations A well planned funeral honours the passing of a unique individual Traditional • Humanist • Civil • Woodland Call Keith or Ali at anytime on 01837 840205
Steve Swift CHIMNEY SWEEP Tel: 01566 783435 Mob: 07890 467406
Alistair Kinsey Hearing & Mobility Independent Hearing Aid Audiologist Ear wax removal service Tel: 01822 617883 Email: [email protected] 1A Pym Street, Tavistock, PL19 0AW www.hearingmobility.co.uk
Step Ahead Lettings An independent, forward-thinking lettings agency offering a variety of services to suit your needs. Tel: 01566 482402 www. stepaheadlettings.co.uk Find us on Facebook & Twitter
C. DA -VIEW Window Cleaning Service in your area Tel: 0777 333 0762 or 01837 659449 and ask for Paul
NORTHMOOR GARDEN MACHINERY WINTER SERVICING AND REPAIRS. BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR ALL ENGINE DRIVEN GARDEN MACHINERY. FIRST COME FIRST SERVED. COLLECTION SERVICE AVAILABLE FOR ALL MACHINES. RAMP AND WINCH FOR RIDE ON MOWERS IF REQUIRED. NO VAT ON LABOUR CHARGES. RIDE ON & PEDESTRIAN MOWERS GARDEN TILLERS CHAINSAWS, STRIMMERS ,CHIPPER/SHREDDERS, HEDGE TRIMMERS ,LEAF BLOWERS & MORE
CALL RICHARD ON 07591 655072 or 01837 861852 www.northmoorgardenmachinery.co.uk [email protected]
• Rotary/ manual sweeping • Certificates for insurance issued • Chimney CCTV recordings carried out • Birds nest removal • Complete dust free service
High reach equipment also available for gutter cleaning/ external chimney repair Special rates for BaSE catchment area
Call: 01837 861873 07747419950 Haldon Wood Farm Plants .... At the top of Pool Hill Call in and take a look at the plants and shrubs we have on offer. Pansies and cyclamens will bring winter colour to your garden. A selection of shrubs are available. All at very competitive prices. Bring back your empty plastic flower pots and trays and we will recycle them.
Devon Dogs Professional dog training on your doorstep We offer life skills, obedience and agility training. Huge purpose built barn Tel: 07717 696623 Email: [email protected] www.devondogs.co.uk
Itechmonster LTD IT Support Website Design Business E-mail Web Hosting Domains Custom Software/Programming 0330 043 0735 [email protected] [email protected]
John & Diane Ware Hunters Moon Bridestowe, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4EN Tel 01837 861193email: [email protected] website: www.huntersmoondevon.co.uk
Richard’s Time Machine
Mobile Disco :- Wedding and Family Party Specialist, Personal, Memorable - and Fun!!
www.richardstimemachine.c o.uk
01837 811172
BaSE Page 36 Bramhill Cob, Lime and Stone Laying Eco Buildings Barn Conversions Lime plastering, Tadelakt & Venetian Extensions Repair, Restore & Renovate Listed Buildings Repointing Construction Skills Certification Scheme reg. Alister Polhill Mob. 07518 908 876 Tel. 01822 820347 Email : [email protected]
Broadwood Boiler Services Quality oil fired appliance maintenance at competitive prices Call Mark: 0781 4976 076 or 01566 784298
T.M. Maintenance & Construction .....Affordable, friendly help Tony Matthews, experienced in maintenance & construction No job too big or too small Great prices on slate and marblecut to anysize and shape Tel: 0797 226 3780 Email: [email protected]
Okehamptonplumber.co.uk Gas boiler servicing from £50 (incl.LPG) Gas boiler replacement and repair Landlord certificates Bathrooms and kitchens Tel: 01837 658907 Mob: 07870 305 880 Plumbing Heating Renewables
Windows, doors, conservatories and joinery UPVC, timber & aluminum supplied and fitted Fascias, glazing & trade counter Tel: 01837 54019 www.okehamptonglass.com
Okehampton ‘Kenpo Ryu’ Karate Kickboxing Tuesday evenings at Okehampton College Gymnasium Juniors 6pm - 6.45pm Adults 7pm - 8.15pm Come and give it a try, the first lesson is free! For more information, contact instructor Roger Chestnutt 07886 185281
Stokes & Co Accountants A One Stop Shop for all your bookkeeping & accountancy needs • Sole Trader, Partnership & Limited Company Accounts • Project Management, Budgets and Analysis • VAT, Payroll and Month End Accounts Free initial consultation - Please call to find out much we can save for you! Tel: 01837 861176 www.stokesaccountants.co.uk
Abigail’s Babysitting Service Fun, caring and kind girl who has experience. I have completed a babysitting course and first aid run by ‘Teen Angel Babysitting’. I charge £5 per hour. Tel: 01837 861247 BaSE Page 37 Complete Podiatry & Chiropody Care
Mr Heath Weymouth BSc(Hons) PgDip MChS HCPC Registered Podiatrist & Member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists 07946-473972 Home visits available CANNON BARN PODIATRY Helping you walk towards pain free Treatments include: Corns, callus, ingrowing toenails, thickened nails, biomechanics, sports injuries and much more. 1 Cannon Barn Cottages, Lewdown. Nr Okehampton. Devon. EX204BT
Limited Editions A selection of limited edition cards, including new images from the Spring Cottage Collection by local artist Fay Johns are available from Riverside Stores and Country Lanes Garden Centre, Okehampton. These cards fit into a 6 inch mount aperture and can easily be made into a framed piece of art, making a lovely gift. Original Paintings available at The Blind Spot Gallery, in the Okehampton Arcade. Well worth a visit. JAMES TENNANT LTD LAND ROVER SPECIALIST Est. 1987 Landymoor, Cowsen Lane, Sourton, Okehampton EX20 4HY Tel. 01837 861478 Email: [email protected]
www.jamestennant.co.uk
Class IV MOT Centre for all makes of car Supply of Land Rover parts
Courtesy car available if required, while we MOT your vehicle.
Hairdresser Haircuts, Styling, Makeover, Men, Women anad Children. Will visit in the area. New in Lewdown but still visiting in the Bridestowe and Sourton areas. Ring Gina Reichert!! Tel 01566 783455 BaSE Page 38 Magna Carpentry Complete carpentry service Roofs, dormers and Veluxes Kitchens supplied and fitted 1st and 2nd FIX Free quotations Tel: 07540 956379 www.magnacarpentry.com
Sam White Hedge laying - tree felling - pruning - firewood/logs Mini digger hire - landscaping Tel: 07515 420 883
Experienced carer Has various days and hours available. Excellent references To enquire, please contact Belinda 07534 711357
Dartmoor Tiling - Professional Tiling Service Contact: Steve Essery Tel: 01837 52013 07729 460746 Website: www.dartmoortiling.co.uk Email: [email protected]
Music Shop, Specialist Coffee and Teas in the heart of Dartmoor 10 The Arcade, Okehampton, EX20 1EX Tel: 07769 931321 Find us on Google, Facebook & Instagram Branded musical Instruments, Accessories and Servicing alongside Fine Coffees, Tea and Beverages
Heaecology Ecological Consultancy and Management - Specialists in Protected Species and Mitigation Thrushel View, Lewdown, Okehampton EX20 4QP Tel: 01566 783183 Mobile :07866 467 892 Email : [email protected] Website: www.heaecology.co.uk
Bird tables for sale Locally made to a high standard Various designs, free standing and hanging tables. Tel: 01837 861604 Mobile: 07902913627 BaSE Page 39 Forthcoming Events for November
Sunday 1st 7am onwards, Donald’s Menswear, Oke, Christmas tree decorating Thursday 5th EDWARDIAN EVENING 7pm, 11 Crandford Close, Book Club, Christmas social (note earlier time) Saturday 7th 9.30am, Tina’s Kitchen, St James Street, Okehampton, Armed Forces & Veteran’s Breakfast Club Sunday 8th 10am - 3pm, Bridestowe Village Hall, Treetops’ Christmas Fayre Tuesday 10th 12noon, Methodist Hall, Over 60s Luncheon Club 5.30 - 8pm, Village centre, Bridestowe Christmas Market Wednesday 11th 10.30am, Charter Hall, Okehampton, Dartmoor Arts Society, lecture 8pm, White Hart, Quiz in aid of Bridestowe Cricket Club Thursday 12th 12 for 12.30pm, White Hart, Thursday Morning Group Christmas lunch Sourton Friendship Group meeting together with Westbridge Quilters Friday 13th 10-2pm, Brentor Village Hall, Pop Up Cafe Saturday 14th 5:30-8pm Bridestowe Village Hall, Family Christmas Party
Monday 16th 12-2pm, Fox & Hounds, lunch/bingo Thursday 19th 7-9pm, Methodist Church Hall, Christmas table decoration workshop Friday 20th 7.30pm, Fox & Hounds, Quiz night
Tuesday 24th 9pm, White Hart, Christmas Draw Tuesday 31st 9pm, White Hart, Karaoke
Weekly exercise activities held in Bridestowe Village Hall Monday 6.45 - 7.45, Aerobics Tuesday 2 - 4pm, Short Mat Bowls " (term time only) 6.30 -7.30pm, Margaret Moore Suite, Belly dancing Thursday 7pm - 8pm Yoga ------Sports night: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 7pm - 9.30pm, Meth Church
BASE submissions We usually plan to print BaSE 5 days before the end of the month so please get your submissions in well before this date as compiling the newsletter takes some time. If you do have a late submission, it’s worth phoning to see if we can squeeze it in. Many thanks. Martin & Alison Young Don’t forget you can read it online via Bridestowe’s and Sourton’s websites.
Contact details for BaSE:- Alison Young, Glebe Park, Pig's Leg Lane, Bridestowe, Okehampton, Devon EX20 4ER Tel: (01837)861157 or [email protected] (please put BaSE in the subjectline) BaSE is printed by Martin Young at the above address. BaSE Page 40